Impedance Cardiography (ICG)

Impedance cardiography is a completely non-invasive test that is performed in the office to provide information about your heart’s ability to deliver blood to the rest of your body, the force your heart has to pump against with each heartbeat, and the amount of fluid in your chest. Sensors are placed on each side of your neck and chest. A cable from the ICG monitor will then be connected to the sensors. Your ICG measurements will be taken as you lie down on your back and remain still for two to five minutes. This technology, originally used by NASA in the 1960’s, has benefited from the advent of the microprocessor and the better understanding of the cardiac cycle. This test measures the mechanical function of the heart, and provides additional information to aid the physician in the diagnosis and treatment of heart failure and hypertension. It helps in the rational selection of medications and avoids prolonged trial and error.

Link to the CardioDynamics website

Here is an article published in the Brattleboro Reformer on 3/12/03: